HC Deb 23 March 1936 vol 310 cc868-9
33. Mr. J. HALL

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether it is made a condition of Government contracts entered into by his Department that window-cleaning undertakings shall be covered by insurance against workmen's compensation and third party risks?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby- Gore)

In the smaller contracts insurance against accidents under the provisions of the Workmen's Compensation Acts is required, but there is no contract requirement of insurance against third party risks.

Mr. HALL

In the interests of the workers and for their protection, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider the matter in regard to the larger offices?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I understand that in every case the larger firms who undertake this work ire covered, and that there is no likelihood of their defaulting on their legal liabilities.

Mr. THORNE

Why should not the right hon. Gentleman's Department have all this window-cleaning work under their own direction and control?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

That would involve the window cleaning in offices in many towns and cities up and down the country.